2017 Fiat 500 vs. 2017 Volkswagen Golf

Fiat 500

Volkswagen Golf

There are a lot of different reasons to go with a hatchback, but most people shopping in this segment are looking for affordability, flexibility, and efficiency—along with a little bit of flare. The 2017 Fiat 500 and 2017 Volkswagen Golf are two potential picks in this popular segment, but they aren’t created equal. Before you decide on your next hatchback to drive down the streets of Chicago, find out which of these models fares better when put head to head.

If you’re trying to stash away your pennies but still want a solid mode of transport, the 2017 Fiat 500 is the better alternative, when compared to the 2017 VW Golf:

• Fiat 500 – MSRP from $14.995
• VW Golf – MSRP from $19,895

Fuel Efficiency

Savings don’t stop the second you sign on the dotted line. In fact, they continue with the different efficiency-enhancing vehicle features. Here, again, the Fiat wins out:

• Fiat 500 – The Fiat 500 has a standard base engine that is a 1.4L inline-four. It’s able to get an EPA-estimated 38 mpg/highway and 31 mpg/city. That means more money in your pocket every month.
• VW Golf – The VW Golf has a standard turbo 1.8L four-cylinder engine, but it fails to save you as much money at the tank. This vehicle gets just an EPA-estimated 38 mpg/highway and 31 mpg/city.

If you’re looking for more oomph in your ride, the 2017 Fiat 500 is also offered with a turbocharged 1.4L inline-four engine. If you opt for this powertrain, you’ll be able to move from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.1 seconds, according to Edmunds. The turbocharged 1.8L four-cylinder engine of the Volkswagen Golf, on the other hand, takes 7.8 seconds to reach 60 mph from a standstill, according to Edmunds.